With Tanzanian heritage, a UK education, and a deep interest in emerging markets, Karim Jetha founded Longdean Capital. Karim’s early career focus on MENA, and his experience living in the region, informs his current investing strategy. Longdean has the operational infrastructure to invest primarily in companies solely listed on local exchanges, which Karim believes gives them access to the best opportunities.

In addition to its focus on frontier and emerging markets, Longdean invests with a bias towards companies with a positive social impact, such as Leejam Sports. Recognizing the increasing participation of females in the workforce facilitated by changing social norms, this chain of fitness centers opened up the first set of female gyms in Saudi Arabia.

Karim’s deep understanding of the nuances in the MENA market inform his appreciation for the diversity and quality of businesses within the region. He shares, “In order to make outsized long-term returns, you have to think differently.” Though this contrarian way of thinking may not appeal to all, Karim values remaining true to your own convictions and trusting that the right investors will follow.

Karim Jetha is founder and Chief Investment Officer at Longdean Capital. Before founding Longdean Capital in 2018, Karim spent nine years at Blakeney Management, where he was Partner, Portfolio Manager, and Head of MENA Coverage. Prior to Blakeney, Karim was an Associate at Goldman Sachs in the Investment Banking Division with stints in London and Dubai. Karim has an MA from the University of Cambridge where he read Economics.

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